BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, July 14, 2025 The BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT convened in a Regular meeting on Monday, July 14, 2025, at 301 West 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Vice-Chair Melissa Hawthorne called the Board of Adjustment Meeting to order at 5:30 PM. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance in-Person: Melissa Hawthorne-Vice Chair, Jeffery Bowen, Yung-ju Kim, Corry L Archer-Mcclellan (Alternate) Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Jessica Cohen-Chair, Thomas Ates, Sameer S Birring, Bianca A. Medina-Leal, Brian Poteet, , Maggie Shahrestani, Michael Von Ohlen Board Members absent: Niccolo A Sacco PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first (4) four speakers signed up/register prior (no later than noon the day before the meeting) to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. NONE APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Board of Adjustment meetings on June 9, 2025. On-Line Link: Draft Minutes for June 9, 2025, Regular meeting and Draft Minutes for June 9, 2025, Special called meeting-Training session The minutes from the meetings (Regular meeting and Special called meeting) on June 9, 2025, were approved on Board member Jeffery Bowen, Board member Corry L. Archer-Mcclellan second, on 9-0 Vote. (Chair Jessica Cohen and Board members Bianca Medina-Leal- No vote-due to technical issues virtual) PUBLIC HEARINGS Discussion and action on the following cases. New Variance cases: 2. C15-2025-0022 Andrew Sulski 1102 Mason Avenue On-Line Link: ITEM02 ADV PACKET PART1, PART2; PRESENTATION The applicant is requesting the following variance(s) from the Land Development Code, Section 25-2-899 (Fences as Accessory Uses) to increase the height from six (6) feet (maximum allowed) to eight feet seven inches (8’7”) (requested) along front property line (east) and nine feet six inches (9’ 6”) along interior side property line (south), in order to erect a fence in a “SF-3-NP”, Single-Family-Neighborhood Plan zoning district (MLK-183 Neighborhood Plan). Note: The Land Development Code 25-2-899 Fences as Accessory Uses (A) Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, a fence: (1) is permitted as an accessory use in any zoning district; and (2) must comply with the requirements of this section. (B) In this section: (1) an ornamental fence is a fence with an open design that has a ratio of solid material to open space of not more than one to four; and (2) a solid fence is a fence other than an …
BOA GENERAL REVIEW COVERSHEET CASE: C15-2025-0025 BOA DATE: Monday, August 11th, 2025 ADDRESS: 506 Terrace Dr OWNER: George McQueen COUNCIL DISTRICT: 9 AGENT: N/A ZONING: SF-3-NP (South River City) LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 8 BLK 4 BLUE BONNET HILLS VARIANCE REQUEST: LDC, Section 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) from setback requirements to decrease the minimum interior side yard setback from 5 feet (required) to 1 foot (requested). SUMMARY: maintain a detached garage and carport ISSUES: legal and complaint in 1930, three heritage oak trees adjacent to structures would risk harming critical root zone if relocated. ZONING LAND USES Site North South East West SF-3-NP SF-3-NP SF-3-NP SF-3-NP SF-3-NP Single-Family Single-Family Single-Family Single-Family Single-Family NEIGHBORHOOD ORGANIZATIONS: Austin Independent School District Austin Neighborhoods Council Friends of Austin Neighborhoods Greater South River City Combined Neighborhood Plan Contact Team Homeless Neighborhood Association Overton Family Committee Preservation Austin South Central Coalition South River City Citizens Assn. South River City Citizens Planning and Zoning Committee ITEM02/1 CITY OF AUST� onme,,-. SERVICESloEPARTMENT Board of Adjustment General/Parking Application Variance Building a Better and Sqfer Austin Together � I For submittal and fee information, see Phone: 311 (or 512-974-2000 outside Austin) WARNING: Filing of this appeal stops all affected construction activity. This application is saved, click here to Save the form to your computer, then PDF that can be completed a fillable open your copy and continue. electronically. To ensure your information is The Tab key may be used to navigate to each field; key activates lists and check bo and buttons. links, emails, xes, and hit Enter to make a selection. Shift + Tab moves to the previous field. The Enter Use the Up & Down Arrow keys to scroll through drop-down The application complete Section must be complete and accurate prior to submittal. ff more space is required, please 6 as needed. All information is required (if applicable). For Office Use Only Case # (15-2025-0025 ROW# _ _. 1=3=-54...,5,._4...,,2..,.3 ___ Tax# __ 0-=-3=-=0=2=0=2_._02=2=-=0 ____ _ Section 1: Applicant Statement Street Address: 506 Terrace Dr. Austin, TX 78704 Subdivision Legal Description: _LI 8_8LKA_BLUE_BO��EI...ttLLLS ADD� 506 IERRA_CE D�EAUS�.IX...78]04 Lot(s): -=8 ___________ --------------- _ Block(s): Division: Outlot: -'-4 __________ _ Zoning District: -51::&NP (South River City) Council District: 9 I/We George & Vanessa McQueen on behalf of myself /ourselves as authorized agent for Georae & Vanessa McOueen <ourselves) affirm that on Month I July ] , Day la ] , Year l2025 …
C15-2025-0025 506 Terrace Drive George McQueen, homeowner From listing (May 2017) Current (June 2025) ITEM02/1 We request a setback variance to preserve our garage and carport in the same place they have been for many decades From listing (May 2017) Current (June 2025) C15-2025-0025 506 Terrace Drive George McQueen ITEM02/2 House and Garage at 506 Terrace 1935 Sanborn Map (source Austin History Center) Garage House C15-2025-0025 506 Terrace Drive George McQueen ITEM02/3 House and Garage at 506 Terrace permit history, both built in 1930 (source Travis County Appraisal District) C15-2025-0025 506 Terrace Drive George McQueen ITEM02/4 2017 Survey (setbacks added) (garage and carport highlighted) 10’ setback (back) 5’ setback (side) C15-2025-0025 506 Terrace Drive George McQueen ITEM02/5 Trees at 506 Terrace (large circles are ½ CRZs) (garage and carport highlighted) 30” Live Oak 48” Live Oak 36” Live Oak Crepe Myrtle 28” Pecan Neighbor’s large Live OK 15” Pecan C15-2025-0025 506 Terrace Drive George McQueen ITEM02/6 Aerial images at 506 Terrace showing tree canopies over carport and garage Circa 1997 (source City of Austin, ArcGis) Circa 2024 (source Bing Maps) C15-2025-0025 506 Terrace Drive George McQueen ITEM02/7 The existing garage, carport and trees are all part of our community and landscape. We want them to last another 90 years! (Photos, June 2025) Our Heritage Trees create lots of shade, and define the property layout and landscape C15-2025-0025 506 Terrace Drive George McQueen ITEM02/8 While replacing the roof and siding (permit 2024-166112 BP, and HR 24-162587), we found extensive rot, damage and rodent infiltration in the process Work done by previous owners rot, concealed damage, and rodents behind the walls and beneath the floors decades of City inspectors saw the repaired framing and said we need a new building permit since we exceeded the scope of the roof/siding permit - Rotten siding - Disintegrating concrete - Damaged roof framing - Rodent damage throughout Before During After C15-2025-0025 506 Terrace Drive George McQueen ITEM02/9 View of garage and carport from driveway From listing (May 2017) Current (June 2025) C15-2025-0025 506 Terrace Drive George McQueen ITEM02/10 In summary: - we love our neighborhood and neighbors - we love our home and all its historic charm - we love our trees! A variance—reducing the side-lot setback from 5’ to 1’—will allow us to preserve our structures without changing the character of our home or neighborhood! Thank you! C15-2025-0025 506 Terrace Drive George McQueen ITEM02/11
BOA GENERAL REVIEW COVERSHEET CASE: C15-2025-0026 BOA DATE: Monday, August 8th, 2025 ADDRESS: 1750 Channel Rd OWNER: Red Bud Partners, LP COUNCIL DISTRICT: 8 AGENT: Stephen Hawkins ZONING: SF-2 LEGAL DESCRIPTION: CHANNEL ROAD SUBD BLK A LOT 1 VARIANCE REQUEST: LDC, Section 25-2-1176 (Site Development Regulations for Docks, Marinas, and Other Lakefront Uses) (A) (1) to increase the dock length from 30 feet (required) to thirty-seven feet and three inches (37’ 3”) (requested). SUMMARY: erect a boat dock ISSUES: uniquely shallow due to sedimentary deposits. ZONING LAND USES SF-2 Site North LA South East West SF-2; LA SF-2 SF-2 Single-Family Lake Austin Single-Family Single-Family Single-Family NEIGHBORHOOD ORGANIZATIONS: Austin Independent School District Austin Neighborhoods Council City of Rollingwood Friends of Austin Neighborhoods Preservation Austin Save Our Springs Alliance TNR BCP – Travis County Natural Resources ITEM03/1 July 21, 2025 Stephen Hawkins 1750 Channel Rd Austin TX, 78746 Property Description: CHANNEL ROAD SUBD BLK A LOT 1 Re: C15-2025-0026 Dear Stephen, Austin Energy (AE) has reviewed your application for the above referenced property, requesting that the Board of Adjustment consider a variance request from LDC Section 25-2-1176(A)(1) at 1750 Channel Road. Austin Energy does not oppose the request, provided that any proposed or existing improvements follow Austin Energy’s Clearance & Safety Criteria, the National Electric Safety Code, and OSHA requirements. Any removal or relocation of existing facilities will be at the owner’s/applicant’s expense. Please use this link to be advised of our clearance and safety requirements which are additional conditions of the above review action: https://library.municode.com/tx/austin/codes/utilities_criteria_manual?nodeId=S1AUENDECR_1.10.0CL SARE If you require further information or have any questions regarding the above comments, please contact our office. Thank you for contacting Austin Energy. Rosemary Avila, Planning Officer Infrastructure Services | Austin Energy 4815 Mueller Blvd Austin, TX 78723 (512) 972-8488 Rosemary.avilla@austinenergy.com ITEM03/2 ITEM03/3 Portion of the City of Austin Land Development Code applicant is seeking a variance from: LDC 25-2-1176(A)(1): "A dock may extend up to 30 feet from the shoreline [into the lake], except ____________________________________________________________________________ that the director may require a dock to extend a lesser or greater distance from the shoreline if ____________________________________________________________________________ deemed necessary to ensure navigation safety" to allow for building a dock 37'3" from the ____________________________________________________________________________ shoreline into the lake. ____________________________________________________________________________ (cid:21)(cid:28)(cid:26)(cid:42)(cid:31)(cid:37)(cid:36) (cid:6)(cid:11) (cid:23)(cid:24)(cid:40)(cid:31)(cid:24)(cid:36)(cid:26)(cid:28) (cid:15)(cid:31)(cid:36)(cid:27)(cid:31)(cid:36)(cid:30)(cid:41) The Board must determine the existence of, sufficiency of, and weight of evidence supporting the findings described below. Therefore, you must complete each of the …
BOA Variance Presentation: Property Address: 1750 Channel Road, Austin, TX 78746 Case Number: C15-2025-0026 Site Plan #: SP-2025-0119D Presenter: Jon Fichter, Aqua Permits ITEM03/1 - PRESENTATION 1750 Channel Road: ITEM03/2 - PRESENTATION Seeking Variance From: LDC 25-2-1176(A)(1): "A dock may extend up to 30 feet from the shoreline [into the lake], except that the director may require a dock to extend a lesser or greater distance from the shoreline if deemed necessary to ensure navigation safety" To Allow For: -The permitting and construction of a dock 37' 3" from the shoreline into the lake. ITEM03/3 - PRESENTATION 1750 Channel Road ITEM03/4 - PRESENTATION 1750 Channel Road ● ● ● Shown here is the site as seen today in an image taken from City of Austin GIS. The existing boat dock was constructed in the early 1980’s and is a grandfathered structure. The existing boat dock extends 37’ 9” from the shoreline. It is being replaced with a new boat dock in the same general location and footprint as the existing. ITEM03/5 - PRESENTATION 1750 Channel Road ● ● ● This image shows the neighboring docks along this stretch of lake channel, taken from COA GIS The neighboring boat docks were constructed between 1960-1980 and are grandfathered, non-conforming structures. These docks historically have been constructed to extend greater than 30’ from the shoreline, as the depth of the lake in this area is too shallow to operate a functional boat dock at the 30’ length. ● Modern watercraft requires at least 4 ft. of water depth to operate - in this area the water depth is too shallow inside of the 30’ setback. ITEM03/6 - PRESENTATION 1750 Channel Road The maximum length from shoreline allowed for a boat dock in Land Development Code 25-2-1176(A)(6) is insufficient in its application for this property. Due to the existing shallow lake conditions along this stretch of Lake Austin, the dock will need to be constructed at a greater length than the allowable 30’ from shoreline in order for the dock to be accessible via modern watercraft without running aground. Dredging of the lake bed is restricted to 25 cubic yards per address by code - in this location the amount of dredge needed to create basic navigability would exceed that amount (see below exhibit). Therefore, building deeper into the lake is required. ITEM03/7 - PRESENTATION 1750 Channel Road ● Our proposed site plan (SP-2025-0119D, …
BOA GENERAL REVIEW COVERSHEET CASE: C15-2025-0027 BOA DATE: Monday, August 8th, 2025 ADDRESS: 1752 Channel Rd OWNER: Tom Davis Jr COUNCIL DISTRICT: 8 AGENT: Stephen Hawkins ZONING: SF-2 LEGAL DESCRIPTION: ABS 329 SUR 2 GRAY T ACR .280 - UDI: 50.00% VARIANCE REQUEST: LDC, Section 25-2-1176 (Site Development Regulations for Docks, Marinas, and Other Lakefront Uses) (A) (1) to increase the dock length from 30 feet (required) to forty-six feet and one inch (46’ 1”) (requested). SUMMARY: erect a boat dock ISSUES: uniquely shallow due to sedimentary deposits. ZONING LAND USES SF-2 Site North LA South East West SF-2 SF-2 SF-2 Single-Family Lake Austin Single-Family Single-Family Single-Family NEIGHBORHOOD ORGANIZATIONS: Austin Independent School District Austin Neighborhoods Council City of Rollingwood Friends of Austin Neighborhoods Preservation Austin Save Our Springs Alliance TNR BCP – Travis County Natural Resources ITEM04/1 July 21, 2025 Stephen Hawkins 1752 Channel Rd Austin TX, 78746 Property Description: ABS 329 SUR 2 GRAY T ACR .280 - UDI: 50.00% Re: C15-2025-0027 Dear Stephen, Austin Energy (AE) has reviewed your application for the above referenced property, requesting that the Board of Adjustment consider a variance request from LDC Section 25-2- 1176(A)(1) at 1752 Channel Road. that any proposed or Austin Energy does not oppose existing improvements follow Austin Energy’s Clearance & Safety Criteria, the National Electric Safety Code, and OSHA requirements. Any removal or relocation of existing facilities will be at the owner’s/applicant’s expense. the request, provided Please use this link to be advised of our clearance and safety requirements which are additional conditions of the above review action: https://library.municode.com/tx/austin/codes/utilities_criteria_manual?nodeId=S1AUENDECR_1 .10.0CLSARE If you require further information or have any questions regarding the above comments, please contact our office. Thank you for contacting Austin Energy. Rosemary Avila, Planning Officer Infrastructure Services | Austin Energy 4815 Mueller Blvd Austin, TX 78723 (512) 972-8488 Rosemary.avilla@austinenergy.com ITEM04/2 ITEM04/3 Portion of the City of Austin Land Development Code applicant is seeking a variance from: LDC 25-2-1176(A)(1): "A dock may extend up to 30 feet from the shoreline [into the lake], except ____________________________________________________________________________ that the director may require a dock to extend a lesser or greater distance from the shoreline if ____________________________________________________________________________ deemed necessary to ensure navigation safety" to allow for building a dock 46'1" from the ____________________________________________________________________________ shoreline into the lake. ____________________________________________________________________________ (cid:21)(cid:28)(cid:26)(cid:42)(cid:31)(cid:37)(cid:36) (cid:6)(cid:11) (cid:23)(cid:24)(cid:40)(cid:31)(cid:24)(cid:36)(cid:26)(cid:28) (cid:15)(cid:31)(cid:36)(cid:27)(cid:31)(cid:36)(cid:30)(cid:41) The Board must determine the existence of, sufficiency of, and weight of evidence supporting the findings described below. …
BOA Variance Presentation Property Address: 1752 Channel Road, Austin, TX 78746 Case Number: C15-2025-0027 Site Plan #: SP-2025-0119D Presenter: Jon Fichter, Aqua Permits ITEM04/1-PRESENTATION 1752 Channel Road: ITEM04/2-PRESENTATION Seeking Variance From: LDC 25-2-1176(A)(1): "A dock may extend up to 30 feet from the shoreline [into the lake], except that the director may require a dock to extend a lesser or greater distance from the shoreline if deemed necessary to ensure navigation safety" To Allow For: -The permitting and construction of a dock 46' 1" from the shoreline into the lake. ITEM04/3-PRESENTATION 1752 Channel Road ITEM04/4-PRESENTATION 1752 Channel Road ● ● ● Shown here is the site as seen today in an image taken from City of Austin GIS. The existing boat dock was constructed between 1960-1970 and is a grandfathered structure. The existing boat dock extends 49’ 9” from the shoreline. It is being replaced with a new boat dock in the same general location. ITEM04/5-PRESENTATION 1752 Channel Road ● ● ● This image shows the nearby docks along this stretch of lake channel The neighboring boat docks have all existed in a non-compliant, but grandfathered form, for at least 40 years or more. These docks historically have been constructed to extend greater than 30’ from the shoreline, as the depth of the lake in this area is too shallow to operate a functional boat dock at the 30’ length. ● Modern watercraft requires at least 4 ft. of water depth to operate - in this area the water depth is too shallow inside of the 30’ setback. ITEM04/6-PRESENTATION 1752 Channel Road The maximum length from shoreline allowed for a boat dock in Land Development Code 25-2-1176(A)(6) is insufficient in its application for this property. Due to the existing shallow lake conditions along this stretch of Lake Austin, the dock will need to be constructed at a greater length than the allowable 30’ from shoreline in order for the dock to be accessible via modern watercraft without running aground. Dredging of the lake bed is restricted to 25 cubic yards per address by code - in this location the amount of dredge needed to create basic navigability would exceed that amount (see below exhibit). Therefore, building deeper into the lake is required. ITEM04/7-PRESENTATION 1752 Channel Road ● Our proposed site plan (SP-2025-0119D, currently in review) proposes a new boat dock with a length of 46’ 1” from shoreline. ● ● …
REGULAR MEETING of the BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT August 11, 2025 AT 5:30PM Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required email for elaine.ramirez@austintexas.gov or call 512-974-2202. remote participation by telephone. To remotely, register speak to CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: ___Jessica Cohen (Chair) ___Melissa Hawthorne (Vice-Chair) ___Thomas Ates ___Jeffery Bowen ___Sameer S Birring ___Bianca A Medina-Leal ___Yung-ju Kim ___Brian Poteet ___Niccolo A Sacco ___Margaret Shahrestani ___Michael Von Ohlen ___Corry L Archer-Mcclellan (Alternate) ___Suzanne Valentine (Alternate) The Board of Adjustment may go into closed session to receive advice from legal counsel regarding any item on this agenda (Private consultation with legal counsel – Section 551.071 of the Texas Government Code). AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first (4) four speakers signed up/register prior (no later than noon the day before the meeting) to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Board of Adjustment meetings on July 14, 2025. On-Line Link: Draft Minutes for July 14, 2025 PUBLIC HEARINGS Discussion and action on the following cases. New Variance cases: 2. C15-2025-0025 George McQueen 506 Terrace Drive On-Line Link: ITEM02 ADV PACKET, PRESENTATION The applicant is requesting the following variance(s) from the Land Development Code, Section 25-2-492 (Site Development Regulations) from setback requirements to decrease the minimum interior side yard setback from 5 feet (required) to 1 foot (requested) in order to maintain a detached garage & carport for a Single-Family Residence in a “SF-3-NP”, Single-Family - Neighborhood Plan zoning district (South River City Neighborhood Plan). 3. C15-2025-0026 Stephen Hawkins for Red Bud Partners, LP 1750 Channel Road On-Line Link: ITEM03 ADV PACKET, PRESENTATION The applicant has requested variance(s) from the Land Development Code, Section 25-2-1176 (Site Development Regulations for Docks, Marinas, and Other Lakefront Uses) (A) (1) to increase the dock length from 30 feet (required) to thirty-seven feet and three inches …
Annual Internal Review This report covers the time period of 7/1/2024 to 6/30/2025 BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT The Board’s mission statement (per the City Code, Title 2 Administration) is: Mission Statement The Board of Adjustment mission is defined by Article 2-1-111 Board of Adjustment and the Board of Adjustment Bylaws which state: The purpose of the Board of Adjustment is to: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) Hear and decide requests for a variance from the requirements of Chapter 25-2 (Zoning), except as otherwise provided by the Code; and, Hear and decide a request for a special exception under Chapter 25-2 (Zoning); and, Hear and decide an appeal of an administrative action under Chapter 25-2 (Zoning); and, Hear and decide on a request for a variance from the requirements of airport zoning regulations under Section 241.034, Local Government Code; and, Perform other duties prescribed by ordinance, such as to hear and decide requests for a variance from the requirements of Chapter 25-10 (Sign Regulations); and, (6) Perform other duties prescribed by state law. Board Actions The following actions of the Board were taken during the period between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025 in support of the Board’s mission. ITEM06/1-LATE BACKUP Annual Review and Work Plan Year 7/1/2024 – 6/30/2025 A. Meetings: Page 2 Twelve (12) meetings were scheduled for the Board of Adjustment during the reporting period. 1. The Board of Adjustment met eleven (11) times in support of the purposes and duties noted above. One scheduled meetings was cancelled due to lack of quorum. 2. The Board of Adjustment held one (1) special called meeting June 9, 2025 for a Board Member training session. 3. The Board of Adjustment heard zero (0) cases related to airport zoning regulations. 4. At the May 2025 meeting, the current Chair and Vice chair were re-elected 5. Workgroups were formed to address BOA Bylaws and Rules of Procedure changes, Use of Alternates, and, Coordination with City Staff. B. Variance Cases Heard: 1. The Board heard a total of 35 items related to variance requests from the requirements of 25-2 (Zoning) and 25-10 (Sign Regulations), plus had 25 discussion items (new business items) during the reporting period. That equates to an average total case load of approximately 5 agenda items per month of which 22 were new cases which equates to an average of approximately 2 new cases per month. Disposition of variance cases: …
August 11, 2025 George McQueen 506 Terrace Dr Austin TX, 78704 Property Description: LOT 8 BLK 4 BLUE BONNET HILLS Re: C15-2025-0025 Dear George, Austin Energy (AE) has reviewed your application for the above referenced property, requesting that the Board of Adjustment consider a variance request from LDC Section 25-2-492 to decrease the interior side yard setback at 506 Terrace Drive. that any proposed or Austin Energy does not oppose existing improvements follow Austin Energy’s Clearance & Safety Criteria, the National Electric Safety Code, and OSHA requirements. Any removal or relocation of existing facilities will be at the owner’s/applicant’s expense. the request, provided Please use this link to be advised of our clearance and safety requirements which are additional conditions of the above review action: https://library.municode.com/tx/austin/codes/utilities_criteria_manual?nodeId=S1AUENDECR_1 .10.0CLSARE If you require further information or have any questions regarding the above comments, please contact our office. Thank you for contacting Austin Energy. Rosemary Avila, Planning Officer Infrastructure Services | Austin Energy 4815 Mueller Blvd Austin, TX 78723 (512) 972-8488 Rosemary.avilla@austinenergy.com
From: To: Subject: Date: Ramirez, Diana FW: Strong Objection to Variance Request; Case No. C15-2025-0026; 1750 Channel Road Monday, August 11, 2025 12:34:59 PM External Email - Exercise Caution Strong Objection to Variance Request; Case No. C15-2025-0026; 1750 Channel Road Please add these pictures to my email Re: Strong Objection to Variance Request; Case No. C15-2025-0026; 1750 Channel Road Dear Members of the Board of Adjustments, We, Bruce and Niloofar Slayden, representing the SLAYDEN BRUCE & NELLIE REVOCABLE TRUST at 1744 Channel Road, respectfully submit this letter to express our strong and unequivocal opposition to the variance request submitted by Red Bud Partners LP for the property located at 1750 Channel Road. The request seeks approval to construct a new dock extending 37 feet and 3 inches from the shoreline—substantially exceeding the 30-foot maximum length permitted under the Land Development Code (LDC 25-2-1176). We urge the Board to deny this request. This request is not only excessive and unjustified, but also poses a threat to navigation safety, neighborhood consistency, and surrounding property values. Critically, this variance request is inconsistent with both the letter and the intent of the applicable regulations. 1. Undermining Code’s Intent The variance request proposes a dock length that is 124% of the maximum allowable by code—exceeding the 30-foot limit by a more than 7 feet. The applicant has not provided evidence demonstrating that this increased length is necessary for navigation safety, as required under LDC 25-2-1176. In the absence of such justification, approval would set a troubling precedent and undermine the intent and the integrity of the Code. 2. Navigation Hazard and Community Consistency The proposed 37+ feet, multi-level dock would constitute a significant navigational hazard. It would be the only residential multi-level dock in the area extending nearly 125% of the standard shoreline distance. This outlier configuration deviates dramatically from the existing character of surrounding docks along Lake Austin, which are predominantly conform to code. A new multi-level dock of up to a 30’ height and 37+’ length would obstruct sight lines around the shoreline curve, increasing the risk of boating accidents. The Board must not approve any new structure that compromises boater safety on Lake Austin. 3. Adverse Impact on Neighboring Properties and the Lake Community Approval of this variance would result in immediate and measurable harm to neighboring properties, including ours. A multi-level dock of this size (extending 25% further from the shoreline …
From: To: Subject: Date: Ramirez, Diana FW: Strong Objection to Variance Request; Case No. C15-2025-0026; 1750 Channel Road Monday, August 11, 2025 12:34:59 PM External Email - Exercise Caution Strong Objection to Variance Request; Case No. C15-2025-0026; 1750 Channel Road Please add these pictures to my email Re: Strong Objection to Variance Request; Case No. C15-2025-0026; 1750 Channel Road Dear Members of the Board of Adjustments, We, Bruce and Niloofar Slayden, representing the SLAYDEN BRUCE & NELLIE REVOCABLE TRUST at 1744 Channel Road, respectfully submit this letter to express our strong and unequivocal opposition to the variance request submitted by Red Bud Partners LP for the property located at 1750 Channel Road. The request seeks approval to construct a new dock extending 37 feet and 3 inches from the shoreline—substantially exceeding the 30-foot maximum length permitted under the Land Development Code (LDC 25-2-1176). We urge the Board to deny this request. This request is not only excessive and unjustified, but also poses a threat to navigation safety, neighborhood consistency, and surrounding property values. Critically, this variance request is inconsistent with both the letter and the intent of the applicable regulations. 1. Undermining Code’s Intent The variance request proposes a dock length that is 124% of the maximum allowable by code—exceeding the 30-foot limit by a more than 7 feet. The applicant has not provided evidence demonstrating that this increased length is necessary for navigation safety, as required under LDC 25-2-1176. In the absence of such justification, approval would set a troubling precedent and undermine the intent and the integrity of the Code. 2. Navigation Hazard and Community Consistency The proposed 37+ feet, multi-level dock would constitute a significant navigational hazard. It would be the only residential multi-level dock in the area extending nearly 125% of the standard shoreline distance. This outlier configuration deviates dramatically from the existing character of surrounding docks along Lake Austin, which are predominantly conform to code. A new multi-level dock of up to a 30’ height and 37+’ length would obstruct sight lines around the shoreline curve, increasing the risk of boating accidents. The Board must not approve any new structure that compromises boater safety on Lake Austin. 3. Adverse Impact on Neighboring Properties and the Lake Community Approval of this variance would result in immediate and measurable harm to neighboring properties, including ours. A multi-level dock of this size (extending 25% further from the shoreline …
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, June 9, 2025 The BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT convened in a Regular meeting on Monday, June 9, 2025, at 301 West 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Jessica Cohen called the Board of Adjustment Meeting to order at 5:52 PM. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance in-Person: Jessica Cohen-Chair, Jeffery Bowen, Bianca A. Medina-Leal, Brian Poteet, Michael Von Ohlen, Corry L Archer-Mcclellan (Alternate) Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Melissa Hawthorne-Vice Chair, Thomas Ates (at 6:38pm), Yung-ju Kim, Maggie Shahrestani Board Members absent: Sameer S Birring, Niccolo A Sacco, Suzanne Valentine PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first (4) four speakers signed up/register prior (no later than noon the day before the meeting) to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. NONE PUBLIC HEARINGS Discussion and action on the following cases. Item02 C15-2025-0007 Postponement request by applicant APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Board of Adjustment meeting on May 12, 2025. On-Line Link: Draft Minutes for May 12, 2025 The minutes from the meeting May 12, 2025, were approved on Vice Chair Melissa Hawthorne, Board member Jeffery Bowen second, on 9-0 Vote (Board member Thomas Ates-late virtual due to technical issues). Previous Postponed Variance cases: 2. C15-2025-0007 Jay Hargrave for Hans Vaziri 601 Kinney Avenue On-Line Link: ITEM02 ADV PACKET PART1, PART2, NO PRESENTATION The applicant is requesting a variance(s) from the Land Development Code 25-2- 492 Site Development Regulations (Maximum Height Requirements) & Subchapter F: Residential Design and Compatibility Standards, Article 2, Development Standards Section 3.4.1 (Height) to increase the height on a flat roof from 32 feet (maximum allowed) to 42 feet (requested), in order to complete a remodel/addition to attach a bedroom to an existing single- family residence in an “SF-3”, Single- Family zoning district. NOTE: LDC 25-2 Land Development, Subchapter F: Residential Design and Compatibility Standards, Article 2: - Development Standards, Section 3.4.1 – Height. Height shall be measured vertically from the average of the highest and lowest grades adjacent to the building to: A. For a flat roof, the highest point of the coping; B. For a mansard roof, the deck line; C. For a pitched or hip roof, the gabled roof or dormer with the highest average height; or D. For other roof styles, the highest point of the building. Postponement request by …
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT SPECIAL CALLED MEETING – Training Session BOARDS AND COMMISSION ROOM 1101 MINUTES Monday, June 9, 2025 The BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT convened in a Special Called Meeting on Monday, June 9, 2005, at 301 West 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Jessica Cohen called the Board of Adjustment Meeting to order at 1:30 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance in-Person: Jessica Cohen-Chair, Jeffery Bowen, Bianca A. Medina-Leal, Michael Von Ohlen, Corry L Archer-Mcclellan (Alternate) Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Melissa Hawthorne-Vice Chair, Yung-ju Kim, Brian Poteet, Maggie Shahrestani Board Members absent: Thomas Ates, Sameer S Birring, Niccolo A Sacco, Suzanne Valentine Some members of the BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT may be participating by videoconference. No actions or votes will be taken. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required email for elaine.ramirez@austintexas.gov or call 512-974-2202. remote participation by telephone. To remotely, register speak to TRAINING SESSION Board of Adjustment Deep Dive: Key Topics & Issues 1. Overview -Brent Lloyd (BOA) General Background • The history of BOAs & their role in zoning • Creation of Austin’s BOA • What BOAs do: Variances Special Exceptions Appeals Variances: Criteria for Approval & Other Considerations • What constitutes a “hardship”? • When is a property deprived of “reasonable use”? • What does it mean to alter “area character? • Variance conditions – what are they for and when are they appropriate? • New state legislation affecting BOA variance criteria? Special Exceptions • What are they, and how are they different from variances? • Austin’s use of special exceptions? Administrative Appeals • What’s an appeal, and how is it different than a variance or exception? • Considerations unique to appeals. 2. Issues Specific to Residential Review -Mike Peralta (Residential Review) • Subchapter F (Residential Design & Compatibility) • Special Exceptions • Other issues 3. Environmental & Lake Austin Issues -John Clement (WPD) • Lake Austin Regulations • Heritage Tree Issues • Related topics 4. Compatibility- Christine Barton-Holmes (LUR) 5. Boat Docks - Clarissa Davis (LUR) ADJOURNMENT 4:00 PM The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be …
BOA GENERAL REVIEW COVERSHEET CASE: C15-2025-0022 BOA DATE: Monday, July 14th, 2025 ADDRESS: 1102 Mason Ave OWNER: Andrew Sulski COUNCIL DISTRICT: 1 AGENT: N/A ZONING: SF-3-NP (MLK-183) LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 7 BLK D HARMONY HEIGHTS ADDN AMENDED VARIANCE REQUEST: increase the height from six (6) feet (maximum allowed) to eight feet seven inches (8’7”) (requested) along front property line (east) and nine feet six inches (9’ 6”) along interior side property line (south) SUMMARY: erect a fence ISSUES: sloped section that requires a retaining wall ZONING LAND USES Site North South East West SF-3-NP SF-3-NP SF-3-NP SF-3-NP SF-3-NP Single-Family Single-Family Single-Family Single-Family Single-Family NEIGHBORHOOD ORGANIZATIONS: Austin Independent School District Austin Neighborhoods Council Del Valle Community Coalition Non-profit East Austin Conservancy East MLK Combined Neighborhood Plan Contact Team Friends of Austin Neighborhoods Homeless Neighborhood Association Overton Family Committee Preservation Austin Reissig Homestead LLC Springdale-Airport Neighborhood Association ITEM02/1 June 17, 2025 Andrew Sulski 1102 Mason Ave Austin TX, 78721 Property Description: LOT 7 BLK D HARMONY HEIGHTS ADDN AMENDED Re: C15-2025-0022 Dear Andrew, Austin Energy (AE) has reviewed your application for the above referenced property, requesting that the Board of Adjustment consider a variance request from LDC Section 25-2-899 at 1102 Mason Avenue. that any proposed or Austin Energy does not oppose existing improvements follow Austin Energy’s Clearance & Safety Criteria, the National Electric Safety Code, and OSHA requirements. Any removal or relocation of existing facilities will be at the owner’s/applicant’s expense. the request, provided Please use this link to be advised of our clearance and safety requirements which are additional conditions of the above review action: https://library.municode.com/tx/austin/codes/utilities_criteria_manual?nodeId=S1AUENDECR_1 .10.0CLSARE If you require further information or have any questions regarding the above comments, please contact our office. Thank you for contacting Austin Energy. Rosemary Avila, Planning Officer Infrastructure Services | Austin Energy 4815 Mueller Blvd Austin, TX 78723 (512) 972-8488 Rosemary.avilla@austinenergy.com ITEM02/2 ITEM02/3 ITEM02/4 ITEM02/5 ITEM02/6 To: Board of Adjustment From: Andrew Sulski Property Address: 1102 Mason Ave, Austin TX 78721 Subject: Request for Variance to Complete Fence Construction Over Retaining Wall Dear Board Members, I am writing to request a variance that will allow me to complete the construction of a privacy fence on my property. I have recently built a retaining wall with a maximum height of 9’6” inches to stabilize a sloped portion of my yard and prevent erosion. My intention is to install a 6-foot privacy fence on top …
